Chapter 62 Diseases of the Endocrine System
As in other species, the endocrine system of sheep and goats exerts some level of control over many metabolic processes. Fortunately, relatively few endocrine disorders are recognized in sheep and goats.
NUTRITIONAL SECONDARY HYPERPARATHYROIDISM
Nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism is a problem with the calcium/phosphorus (Ca/P) ratio in the feed. Animals that exhibit signs of this condition may have a history of grazing certain types of plants that are high in calcium-binding substances such as oxalates. The condition can also occur from an owner feeding a diet that is high in phosphorous and low in calcium. The lack of available calcium causes parathyroid gland to release greater than normal amounts of parathyroid hormone. This can be either an absolute lack of calcium or a perceived lack of calcium caused by a high phosphorus level. Parathyroid hormone causes calcium to be absorbed from the bones.
